Industry reacts as ‘Martyn’s Law’ finally becomes legislation

The Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, aka ‘Martyn’s Law’, has today, 3 April, received Royal Assent and has become law.

The Home Office has said it expects the implementation phase will last at least two years, during which a regulator will be established within the Security Industry Authority (SIA). It said the process will ensure there is time for businesses, premises and events to prepare for the legislation coming into force.

Jon Collins, CEO of LIVE, which represents 15 live music industry organisations, has welcomed the move and said it will work with the Home Office during the implementation phase to develop guidance.

He said, “We are pleased the Bill has completed its passage through Parliament and look forward to working with the Home Office to develop the detailed operating plans and guidance to ensure clarity in the ways of working of the new inspectorate and how our venues, events and festivals can demonstrate compliance.

“As we have noted throughout this process, the licensing requirements under which those venues and festivals operate provide a certainty and regulatory connection that should support this work. We will continue to work closely with businesses within the live music industry to prepare for the rules to come into force over the next few years.”

The Home Office said the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 will require public premises, where 200 or more individuals may be present, to be better prepared and have plans in place to keep people safe in the event of an attack.

Larger premises and events where 800 or more people will be present will be required to take further steps to reduce their vulnerability to acts of terrorism – such as having CCTV, bag search policies or vehicle checks where appropriate.

“Whilst those that fall within scope of the Act may wish to consider the requirements, there is no requirement to comply with them until the legislation comes into force,” it said. “Premises and events do not need to spend money on consultants to be compliant with the legislative requirements.”

The anti-terror legislation has often been referred to as Martyn’s Law, in honour of Martyn Hett, one of the 22 victims of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. It has been championed by his mother Figen Murray OBE. Last year, Murray commenced a near 200 mile walk to Downing Street to raise awareness of her continued fight to get the Government to implement the legislation.

She said, “For the last six years I have campaigned to introduce measures that will improve security at public venues and how they respond to a terror attack – Martyn’s Law.

“I am grateful to the Prime Minister, the Security Minister and Lord Hanson for how quickly they’ve progressed Martyn’s Law through parliament. But this would not have happened without the tireless support of my co-campaigners Nick Aldworth, Brendan Cox, Nathan Emmerich, my husband Stuart, and my children.

“Over the implementation period it is vital that the government and Security Industry Authority provide all that is necessary for publicly accessible locations to implement Martyn’s Law.”

Night Time Industries Association CEO Michael Kill said, “This law provides a structured approach to preparedness, ensuring that venues and events take proportionate steps to protect the public from the evolving threat of terrorism. As an industry, we will continue working closely with the Home Office, the SIA, and key stakeholders to develop clear guidance and support for businesses. Ensuring the safety of our night-time economy and public spaces is paramount, and we fully support this crucial legislation.”

Announcing the news, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “Today is a landmark moment for our security as my government delivers on its promise to introduce Martyn’s Law and better protect the public from terrorism.

“Figen’s courage and determination in the face of such unimaginable loss is truly humbling and it is thanks to her campaigning that Martyn’s Law means her son’s legacy will live on forever.”

“Security is the foundation of our Plan for Change and the first duty of any government. Martyn’s Law will ensure everyone can enjoy public events more safely and ensure venues across the country have clear, practical measures in place to protect people.”